The Wall Street Journal states “Networking must be done consistently throughout your entire career”. I agree wholeheartedly with this statement, but as technology forges ahead we seem to be getting away from face to face encounters in lieu of clicks, taps and forwards. I’m certainly not suggesting a complete break from social media, it’s a great way to stay in touch but there is no substitute for eye-to-eye networking.
If we know the importance of networking and understand that it is the foundation for the road to success, how do we ensure that we are continually networking and making it work for us? I have put together a list of some of the ways you can make the most of networking opportunities.
- Attend Business Conferences
What better way to get your name out there than mingling with your counterparts at conferences, seminars and business symposiums? This provides an opportunity to hand out your business cards, establish referral connections, brainstorm with colleagues about issues that concern both of you, find solutions to shared problems and promote yourself. It’s the simplest way to network, learn something and have some fun all at the same time. - Parroting
This is a technique used by successful entrepreneurs and salespeople and allows you to acquire more information and feelings from the person you are networking with. It is a simple technique involving repeating the last few words of the other persons conversation, which immediately puts the ball back in their court, allowing you to listen and take the conversation down the path most beneficial to you. This technique is also invaluable when there is a lull, awkward moment of silence or when you have no idea how to continue a conversation. - Watch Your Language
When you are introduced to someone, it is critically important that you don’t make him or her feel like they are being interrogated. It’s more about how you say things than firing direct questions, which makes many people feel uncomfortable. For example, instead of asking, “what do you do”? you might change up the wording to something like “how do you spend most of your time” both of which will probably result in the same answer “I spend most of my time at work, I am a ……”.
With the Mastery Summit only a month away these tips should provide you with exactly what you need to connect with the best Agents and Brokers in North America. Opportunities will present themselves during the entire three-day period so be sure to take advantage of them! www.MasterySummit.com
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